HomeMy Public PortalAbout01-January 27, 2021 RCMCITY OF OPA-LOCKA
"The Great City"
CLERK'S ACTION SUMMARY MINUTES
REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
January 27, 2021
7:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Pigatt called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at
Sherbondy Village, 215 Perviz Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida.
2. ROLL CALL:
The following members of the City Commission were present: Commissioner Burke,
Commissioner Davis, Commissioner John I-1. Taylor Jr., Vice Mayor Williams and Mayor Pigatt.
Also in attendance were: City Manager John E. Pate, City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks,
Assistant City Attorney Candace Cobbs and City Clerk Joanna Flores.
3. INVOCATION:
The Invocation was delivered by Commissioner John H. Taylor Jr.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
5. AWARDS/PROCLAMATIONS/ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
Mayor Pigatt acknowledged Florida State House Representative Dr. James Bush III, Governor
Ron DeSantis' Office, and Holy Temple Missionary Baptist Church led by former Mayor Joseph
L. Kelley for hosting a COVID-19 vaccination program in the City. Over 500 people were
vaccinated thanks to the collaboration of the City's Parks Director and their team as well City staff.
6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA AND PULL LIST (deferrals and deletions):
Mayor Pigatt pulled agenda item 13-4 from the Consent Agenda to be discussed separately under
Action Items.
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to approve the Consent
Agenda (13-1, 13-2 and 13-3).
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
7. APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Clerk Flores stated that a request was made to amend the agenda to include the following items:
14-1: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF Opa-locka,
FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONSENT
AGREEMENT WITH THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF
REGULATORY AND ECONOMIC RESOURCES, DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL
RESOURCES MANAGEMENT (DERM), SUBSTANTIALLY IN THE FORM
ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT "A" AND RESOLVE ALLEGED BUILDING
DEPARTMENT VIOLATIONS; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
Mayor Pigatt asked the City Manager and/or City Attorney to state the emergency nature of this
item.
City Manager Pate said that the emergency nature of the item is based on the health, safety and
welfare of the residents of Opa-locka, as well as potential litigation against the City.
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Davis to amend the agenda to
include 14-1.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
14-2: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF Opa-locka,
FLORIDA, URGING THE FLORIDA GOVERNOR TO AMEND EXECUTIVE ORDER
20-315 TO INCLUDE TEACHERS IN THE PHASE 1 COVID-19 VACCINATION
DISTRIBUTION PLAN PRIORITY LIST; PROVIDING FOR TRANSMITTAL;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager and Co -Sponsored
by Vice Mayor Williams
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
Mayor Pigatt asked that the City Manager and/or City Attomey state the emergency nature of this
item.
City Manager Pate said that the emergency nature of the item is based on the safety and welfare of
the citizens of Opa-locka, as well as the teachers that work within the City of Opa-locka.
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Vice Mayor Williams to amend the agenda
to include 14-2.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Davis to approve the agenda.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Virtual COVID-19 Workshop — May 21, 2020
It was moved by Vice Mayor Williams, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to approve the minutes
of the Virtual COVID-19 Workshop on May 21, 2020.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Regular Commission Meeting — December 9, 2020
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Commissioner Burke to approve the minutes
of the Regular Commission Meeting on December 9, 2020.
Clerk Flores stated that the minutes would be approved with corrections on page 18. The 3rd
paragraph from the bottom read "Manager Pigatt" and should read "Mayor Pigatt", so that will be
corrected.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
9. DISTRICT ONE / DISTRICT TWO - COUNTY COMMISSIONER REPORT:
There were none.
10. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS:
There were none.
11. CITIZENS' FORUM:
Clerk Flores announced the protocols for public participation at City Commission Meetings.
The following public comment was submitted by email and read into the record by Clerk Flores:
Michelle Henney of 10640 Paris Street, Cooper City, FL 33026 — My comments are for the full
benefit of the residents of the City of Opa-locka so that they are aware of what is actually occurring
in their own City. What does Assistant Manager George Ellis do for the City of Opa-locka? What
is his salary, and what has he accomplished since his hire date? There have been 13 resignations
since the Finance Department of the City of Opa-locka has been under the management of
Geraldine Lazarre of TriMerge. The City has paid Geraldine Lazarre in excess of $1,100,000.
The City is still 2 years behind in audits. What is the timeline for the 2019, 2020 and 2021 audit?
Clerk Flores announced that a citizen had pre -registered to provide their public comment by Zoom:
Dorothy Johnson of 13724 NW 22nd Place, Opa-locka, FL 33054 - Mrs. Johnson thanked the
Commissioners for their previous workshop and stated she had provided some suggestions, but
had not heard back from anyone. After receiving calls from several businesses advising her that a
person believed to be an employee of the City named Marcella had contacted those businesses
offering a $10,000 forgiveness loan, she would appreciate that being addressed. Clarification was
also requested on her understanding from the workshop, that there may be a possible
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
recommendation to increase taxes. Strong encouragement was given to the Commission and their
staff to come up with a strategy on troubleshooting, because of her belief that trust must be built
in the community. Ms. Johnson reported that neighbors are keeping in touch about crimes taking
place throughout the City using ring doorbells and cell phone video, with 45 additional boots on
the ground as evidenced by the videos on YouTube. In a follow-up to her comments from the last
meeting, she asked any of the Commissioners to introduce legislation for seat -wide elections prior
to 2022. While she prefers not to initiate a petition drive, if no one presents the legislation soon,
she believes that a petition may be the best way to go. Ms. Johnson stated that a couple of reporters
have asked her if she has ever tried to mentor any of the Commissioners, and she stated that she
had spent at least a couple of hours with some on the dais now. Recognition was given to
Congresswoman Carrie Meek as her mentor and guru. Ms. Johnson stated that she does not want
her name messed up with Opa-locka issues, but is willing to work, while strongly encouraging that
transparent government be looked at. In closing, she affirmed that she believes it is very important
that the City Manager be allowed to do his job by the elected officials, because both have the
community's support, but that the responsibility must be separated.
Mayor Pigatt opened the floor for the Citizens' Forum for those who were in the audience.
Brian Dennis of 821 NW 54th Street, Miami, Florida came forward and voiced his concerns relating
to the rumors about firing the City Manager, his perspective as the Chair of the Criminal Justice
Committee of the NAACP, and the amount of shooting cases being cleared by the Chief of Police.
He further stated that he believes that government money is being spent badly and the City is
failing to invest in the residents.
There being no further persons to speak, Citizens' Forum was closed.
Mayor Pigatt asked if anyone had any responses to anything that was brought up during the
Citizens' Forum.
City Manager Pate responded to Dorothy Johnson's question about taxes, clarifying that the
millage rate has already been approved for the City and there are currently no budget discussions.
He also addressed the question about the $10,000 forgiveness loan, which he believes may be
confused with the amnesty program for code enforcement violations, providing 75% relief for
violations currently on file. In response to Mr. Dennis, Manager Pate stated he would be more
than happy to work with the NAACP to develop a partnership and law enforcement strategy. As
someone who grew up on the south side of Chicago, which Manager Pate stated is not a safe place
to be, he explained that he understands the concerns that were raised. Manager Pate said he did
not recall a workshop that addressed the issues raised by Ms. Johnson, but did share that there is a
workshop coming up in February that is jointly being organized by the City Commission and the
Audit Committee, that will likely be a session of at least 2 hours to review 4 audits.
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
Commissioner Burke asked for clarification if Ms. Johnson's statement about the information
being provided to businesses, was about a small business loan, in the amount of $10,000.
Commissioner Davis stated that former Commissioner Dorothy Johnson's statement about the
$10,000 small business loan may be related to the Community Fund of North Miami -Dade which
has a PPP loan program that he believes is in the same amount. That is a subsidiary of the Opa-
locka Community Development Program, which is his former employer and he is familiar with
the employee making the calls to businesses.
Vice Mayor Williams responded to former Commissioner Dorothy Johnson's invite to mentor the
newly elected board. She stated that she found it odd that since she has been on the board, she has
only been attacked, but is willing to meet with any former Commissioner. Speaking candidly and
freely, on behalf of her other newly elected colleagues, she said to get to know them, before you
judge them.
12. ACTION ITEMS (items from consent agenda pull list):
1. (13-4) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF Opa-
locka, FLORIDA, RESCINDING RESOLUTION 20-9809, AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO ACCEPT THE EMERGENCY FEE PROPOSAL OF MCHARRY AND
ASSOCIATES INC. TO CONDUCT A CONDITION ASSESSMENT OF HISTORIC CITY
HALL AND ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT FOR SAME IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED FORTY-THREE THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS
($43,350.00), PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR
AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by Attorney Cobbs.
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Vice Mayor Williams to approve the
resolution.
City Manager Pate asked Attorney Norris -Weeks to introduce this item on his behalf.
Attorney Norris -Weeks stated that the original resolution was passed in September, but MC Harry
and Associates is not included as one of the engineers and architects that can be secured under one
contract and used under a rotation. The item was recommended to be added to this agenda as an
emergency item before the work starts, so that any future audit would not find that something was
done inconsistent with the commission's code. She explained that the building has been
abandoned since 2016, and due to weather issues there are roof and other structural upgrades that
need to be determined. The repairs are needed on an emergency basis, because City staff does not
want to continue having damage to the building. Attorney Norris -Weeks assured the commission
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that passing this item will ensure this work is done consistent with the commission's procurement
code.
Mayor Pigatt said he pulled this item because for all those who love the City, it is heartbreaking
seeing the Historic City Hall in such conditions. In consideration of the fact that quite a few
resolutions have been passed over the past few years to address this, the Mayor asserted that he
just wants to make sure that it gets done. He brought up that the last time this item came before
the Commission, it did not include funding for the fire station next to the Historic City Hall. The
Mayor shared his belief that if an investment is to be made, that it should include a complete
condition assessment of the entire complex.
City Manager Pate responded to the concern raised by the Mayor, explaining that the issue was
missed with the original resolution, and thus can't be included with this one, because it is
addressing a specific procurement issue for the old City hall, but it can be addressed as the
assessment of the Historic City Hall is being completed.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
13. ADMINISTRATION:
CONSENT AGENDA:
1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF Opa-locka,
FLORIDA, APPROVING ISSUANCE OF A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ("RFP") FOR
THE PROVISION OF PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES AT 780 FISHERMAN
STREET; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
2. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF Opa-locka,
FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN
AGREEMENT WITH SSN ENGINEERING, LLC. FOR CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL
ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES TO PERFORM
SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM HYDRAULIC MODELING, PURSUANT TO RFQ NO. 20-
0324200; IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED ONE HUNDRED THIRTY THOUSAND
DOLLARS ($130,000.00); PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS,
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
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3. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF Opa-locka,
FLORIDA, AMENDING RESOLUTION #20-9818 WHICH DECLARED EMERGENCY
REGULATIONS FOR CERTAIN PUBLIC MEETINGS DURING THE COVID-19 STATE
OF EMERGENCY; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ARRANGE FOR
PUBLIC WORKSHOP MEETINGS AND EXECUTIVE SESSIONS TO BE CONDUCTED
BY USE OF COMMUNICATIONS MEDIA TECHNOLOGY; PROVIDING FOR
CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
Vote taken on Consent Agenda items can be viewed under Agenda Item 6 — Approval of the
Consent Agenda.
14. NEW ITEMS:
1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF Opa-locka,
FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONSENT
AGREEMENT WITH THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF
REGULATORY AND ECONOMIC RESOURCES, DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL
RESOURCES MANAGEMENT (DERM), SUBSTANTIALLY IN THE FORM
ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT "A" AND RESOLVE ALLEGED BUILDING
DEPARTMENT VIOLATIONS; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by Attorney Cobbs.
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Davis to approve the
resolution.
City Manager Pate was asked to introduce the item by Mayor Pigatt. Reflecting upon the fact that
when he became City Manager in October 2019, he was approached by DERM to complete an
assessment of the Building Department, City Manager Pate recalled that he was asked for building
license information and worked in a transparent way with the IT department to provide all
requested information. The DERM assessment was completed in November, and a letter of intent
for potential legal action in regards to the City's inability to coordinate with DERM upon the
issuance of certain business licenses in the City. The charge to assess every department is one that
City Manager Pate asserts he will continue doing. DERM wanted to fine the City $25,000, have
the City sign a consent decree and invest over $35,000 for improvements of the Building
Department's systems. Through his negotiations with DERM, he was able to get them to not fine
the City $25,000 which he stated was done in exchange for the City going over $35,000 of in -kind
contributions to improve the Building Department, including an assessment of the HR department
to determining personnel requirements, as well as an IT assessment that looks at the systems of
other cities currently being overseen by DERM like Hialeah. The goal as outlined by City Manager
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
Pate is to work hand in hand with DERM on the consent decree. Mr. Pate requested 30-90 day
reports to be submitted by the City on a regular basis and requested IT upgrades, which must be
completed with DERM's authorization and supervision. In effect, the assessment of the
departments has been completed by DERM, including the assessment of the police department that
was requested by Miami -Dade County. A memo has been written to outline the status of the
current consent decree and what has been achieved since Mr. Pate became City manager, even as
a new consent decree is being entered into. Due to the very rainy seasons, while hard work is
being done to get out of the DERM moratorium this year, it may not be until next year that it is
accomplished. Prior to 2019, the City was not working hand -in -hand with DERM, as they would
request information that they would not receive. City Manager Pate asserted that while the
violation may look negative, it also demonstrates that the City is moving forward in transparency,
and that he believes the City deserves to be in a consent decree, because the City must do better as
he welcomes transparency and accountability.
Commissioner Davis sought further clarification about being under another layer of governance
from DERM, and its impact on the Water and Sewer Department as well as the ability to issue
business licenses.
City Manager Pate confirmed that this will have the City enter into an additional consent decree.
Commissioner Davis asked what the penalty is.
City Manager Pate explained that documentation must be shown for investments in improvements
equaling, totaling or exceeding $37,500.00 in order for there not to be any enforcement action
requiring the City to pay any penalty. There is an administrative fee of over $1,000 that must be
paid based on the amount of time DERM spent to complete their investigation. Mr. Pate asserted
that there were planned improvements already included in this and next budget year.
Commissioner Davis asked if the in -kind match for the infrastructure improvements was
negotiated by the City Manager's office and Mr. Pate confirmed that it was. Whether or not the
consent decree was still on the table was a concern raised by Commissioner Davis.
City Manager Pate explained that such terms need to be approved by DERM, similar to the consent
decree related to the Water and Sewer Department.
Mayor Pigatt asserted the importance of this step, and reminded the commission that the original
consent agreement was entered into in 2018 when there were reports of sewage coming up across
the City, and there being a dire need for infrastructure repair. The Mayor asked the City Manager
what percentage of the City's commerce district was under moratorium.
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
City Manager Pate stated it was a significant percentage, but did not know the exact number. The
moratorium is causing the City to not be able to open new businesses within the business park area
and various other areas of the City.
Mayor Pigatt asserted that no new businesses can be established in almost 90% of the commerce
and business districts in the City. This means that if a business has a warehouse or lots, they can't
rent them out to new businesses without extra approval because of the pump stations. Since then,
significant achievements have been made to get the pump stations up and running. A big problem
was making sure that the occupational license was put in place. He said he is happy to see the
partnership with DERM and the assessment of the Building Department, as well as the work that
Public Works has been doing to get the pump stations up and out of moratorium, so that the City
can have a platform to spur and engage new businesses.
Vice Mayor Williams stated she is glad that the City is addressing this problem now, and asked
City Manager Pate if there are people in the Building Department that were there when this fell
through, and what accountability there will be to make sure this does not happen again.
City Manager Pate explained that the City is doing a full analysis of the Building Department
including the history in regards to staff. This requires a comprehensive assessment, which City
Manager Pate has charged the HR and IT department to do. Personnel issues that were brought up
in previous commission meetings are being included in the assessment, in addition to assessing
failures, transparency and the system itself. He stated that due to the ongoing nature of the
assessment, he is unable to speak on anything further in the public meeting, but is happy to discuss
this with each Commissioner, the Mayor and the Vice Mayor.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
2. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA,
FLORIDA, URGING THE FLORIDA GOVERNOR TO AMEND EXECUTIVE ORDER
20-315 TO INCLUDE TEACHERS IN THE PHASE 1 COVID-19 VACCINATION
DISTRIBUTION PLAN PRIORITY LIST; PROVIDING FOR TRANSMITTAL;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager and Co -Sponsored
by Vice Mayor Williams
The above resolution was read by Attorney Cobbs.
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Vice Mayor Williams to approve the
resolution.
City Manager Pate asked Vice Mayor Williams to present this item.
Vice Mayor Williams stated that this item is near and dear to her heart, as it is to anyone in the
field of education. Our teachers are part of the front line workers. The Vice Mayor shared that as
an educator and a school administrator, the work doesn't stop and they are still on the front lines
with their students, parents and stakeholders. Having this resolution to urge Governor Ron
DeSantis to understand that we know that our seniors are essential as well as our healthcare
workers and first responders, but to have our teachers in the priority list. Vice Mayor Williams
asserted that our teachers are first responders and if they are being told that they must open schools
and have students come back into the building, in consideration of the fact that many children with
COVID are asymptomatic and can carry the virus, and they must take care of our teachers and
provide the vaccines. She wants to have the resolution passed along with other municipalities to
urge the Governor, so that this happens.
Commissioner Davis applauded Vice Mayor Williams and City Manager Pate for sponsoring this
item. As a first year teacher this year, he can attest from first-hand experience that our teachers
are undervalued. He admits that he was a bit alarmed to see teachers left out of the first round of
vaccinations. The Commissioner believes this will be beneficial to students, families, and teachers
who are front line workers. As a supporter of the item, Commissioner Davis offered a friendly
amendment to not only expand to teachers, but all school staff. He asserted that teachers are front
line workers, but so are janitors, lunchroom employees, and security guards who also interact with
just as many students throughout the day, and he would not like to see them left out.
City Manager Pate confirmed as the prime sponsor of the item, that he does support that friendly
amendment.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
15. PLANNING & ZONING:
A. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
B. APPEALS:
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
16. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARINGS:
A. FIRST READING ORDINANCE(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S):
B. SECOND READING ORDINANCE(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S):
1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE ANNUAL ADOPTED GENERAL,
PROPRIETARY AND SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS BUDGETS FOR THE FISCAL
YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2020 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2021;
ADJUSTING REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES AS REFLECTED IN EXHIBIT "A";
PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS ESTABLISHED BY THE BUDGET;
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO TAKE CERTAIN ACTIONS; PROVIDING
FOR APPROPRIATION OF ALL BUDGETS AND EXPENDITURES; PROVIDING FOR
FEES CONSISTENT WITH APPROPRIATIONS AND AMENDMENT; PROVIDING
FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND
REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE (first reading/public hearing held on January 13, 2021). Sponsored by City Manager
The above ordinance was read by Attorney Cobbs.
Mayor Pigatt opened the floor for a public hearing.
There being no persons to speak on the public hearing, the public hearing was closed.
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Davis to approve the ordinance
on first reading.
City Manager Pate asked Mr. Anathan to explain this item and to only go over any adjustments
that were made between first reading and second reading.
Budget Administrator Robert Anathan appeared remotely and highlighted the 41 budget
amendment items totaling $2.3 million gross, to be included as part of the above ordinance which
are reflected in the agenda cover memo as well as the FY 21 Budget Amendment exhibit. He
stated that $1 million has been identified in cost savings. The changes from the first hearing
included:
• Removing two redundant items
• $8,000 for police training because a member of the command staff is slated to go
to Northwestern University for 3 weeks this Spring for a leadership and
management training program.
• $203,000 in administrative costs, moving two projects from one account to another
for administrative reasons.
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
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M r . A n a t h a n u r g e d c o n s i d e r a t i o n t o b e g i v e n t o t h e g e n e r a l f u n d c o n t i n g e n c y f o r m a j o r e v e n t s
s u c h a s h u r r i c a n e s . C u r r e n t l y t h e f u n d b a l a n c e i s f a r l e s s t h a n i t s h o u l d b e a n d i n t h e p r o c e s s o f
b e i n g r e s t o r e d , a n d t h e C i t y ' s f i n a n c i a l h i s t o r y i s s u c h t h a t a n e m e r g e n c y l i n e o f c r e d i t i s n o t
a v a i l a b l e r i g h t n o w . T h e o r i g i n a l b u d g e t f o r t h i s y e a r w a s $ 1 . 4 7 m i l l i o n , b u t o v e r t h e b u d g e t
a m e n d m e n t s , i t h a s g o n e d o w n t o a b o u t $ 1 . 0 4 m i l l i o n w h i c h i s a f l o o r t o w h e r e y o u w a n t t o b e t o
h a v e a l i n e o f d e f e n s e a g a i n s t s o m e t h i n g s u c h a s h u r r i c a n e s . T h e r e f o r e , h e s u g g e s t e d t h a t t h e
g e n e r a l f u n d c o n t i n g e n c y s h o u l d n o t b e u s e d t o f u n d a n y n e w i n i t i a t i v e s f o r t h e t i m e b e i n g . A n y
n e w i n i t i a t i v e s d e e m e d a p p r o p r i a t e b y t h e c o m m i s s i o n w i l l n e e d t o l o o k f o r c o s t r e d u c t i o n s f r o m
o t h e r p r o g r a m s , u n t i l w e b e t t e r k n o w w h a t o u r f i n a n c i a l s t a t u s i s . A l t h o u g h h e b e l i e v e s t h e C i t y
h a s d o n e w e l l o v e r t h e p a s t t w o y e a r s , t h e y w i l l n o t k n o w w i t h a n y d e g r e e o f c e r t a i n t y u n t i l t h e
F Y 1 9 a n d F Y 2 0 a u d i t s a r e c o m p l e t e d , w h i c h w i l l n o t b e u n t i l l a t e S p r i n g . M r . A n a t h a n c a u t i o n e d
t h a t a s e c o n d f a c t o r t o k e e p i n m i n d i s n o t h a v i n g a f i r m u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f t h e F Y 2 1 r e v e n u e . T h e
F Y 2 1 r e v e n u e b u d g e t f o r t h e g e n e r a l f u n d i s a l i t t l e o v e r $ 1 9 m i l l i o n a n d a t t h e m o m e n t t h e r e i s
s o m e t h i n g l i k e $ 4 0 0 , 0 0 0 i n r e v e n u e . T h e a c c o u n t i n g c o m m u n i t y ' s f o c u s o n t h e F Y 1 9 a u d i t h a s
l e f t u s w i t h l i t t l e u n d e r s t a n d i n g o n w h a t F Y 2 1 r e v e n u e l o o k s l i k e . H e f u r t h e r o f f e r e d t o a n s w e r
a n y q u e s t i o n s .
1 3
R e g u l a r C o m m i s s i o n M e e t i n g M i n u t e s J a n u a r y 2 7 , 2 0 2 1
City Manager Pate asked Mr. Anathan if his revenue projection considered the $498,000 that was
released by the City's banking institution in regards to the loan payments.
Mr. Anathan explained that even though it was formally announced in the last 30 days, it was an
assumption of the FY21 budget.
City Manager Pate asked Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre if the $498,000 was an assumption
of the budget currently on the books, because he knows it is a new consideration for this year.
Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre confirmed that based on her conversations with Mr. Anathan,
the release of the monies being held by the bank were included in the budget, and that after this
first review, the bank will conduct an additional review mid -year to determine whether or not they
will release additional funds. Ms. Lazarre asked for clarification from Mr. Anathan regarding
whether the projected funds from CITT based on the report that was issued, were factored into the
budget.
Mr. Anathan stated that he has heard discussion of it, but has not seen anything in writing, and
therefore it is not factored into the budget at this point.
Based on Mr. Anathan's response, Ms. Lazarre asserted that there are other items coming up on
the horizon that will be included in the budget, which may be able to assist with some of the
shortfalls.
Mr. Anathan stated that until additional expenditures and additional revenue are firmed up, he
would recommend caution in terms of additional initiatives at this point.
Ms. Lazarre agreed with Mr. Anathan and added that the City is expecting a little over $1.8 million
from the CARES Act funding as a result of operating reimbursements. Ms. Lazarre stated that
those reimbursements were submitted to the county and are awaiting review from their consultant.
Mr. Anathan added that the CARES Act funding coincides with the fact that he thinks the fund
balance is moving in the right direction, but the City is not up to the $3 million required to have
that be used as a source of funding.
City Manager Pate thanked Mr. Anathan and Ms. Lazarre for their clarifications. After
acknowledging that an upward hill is still being climbed in regards to fund balance, he said he just
wants to show that the City is looking at funds that were not projected to come in, that will assist
with the short fall, and that the Commission and the state have visibility of that as well. City
Manager Pate asserted that the budget needs to begin to be cut, but reminded the Commission that
the trend over the last 2-3 years has been that there are savings because everything that is projected
in the budget is not spent. While the budget may show a shortfall, Mr. Pate asserted that at the end
of the year, when everything is reconciled, most of the time we see savings. The progress being
made and being transparent in communications, is what is key.
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
Mayor Pigatt stated that whenever second budget amendments come around there are many
changes and he wants to focus on what they are. While he is glad to see that training is being
increased across departments, despite them being cut from previous budgets, he inquired about
what these trainings were for.
City Manager Pate began his response by acknowledging that the City's police department training
has been under -invested in for many years, and first responders should come first especially in the
current climate. Based on his assessment, there was a need to increase the training budget, to
prevent lawsuits by having officers go through training on de-escalation techniques and ensure
that their training files are up to date and current, as well as investing in police department
leadership which the City had not done. Law enforcement agencies across the country invest in
executive level training, but the City has not. Mr. Pate reminded the commission that he has a
significant background in law enforcement, and he suggested that successful law enforcement
agencies ensure that their staff is properly trained, including for leadership and development.
Having just completed an outside search for a Chief of Police, which would have been unnecessary
in any other agency because of succession planning, he hopes that with proper investment in the
City's law enforcement officers, it will make them capable of moving up through the ranks, instead
of having to go to outside services for staff. This is the reason why a little bit more was invested
in training funds. The City Manager asserted that many of the budget amendments were done
without full communication and all of the staff being involved. Thinking of last year's budget,
Mr. Pate recalled that there were training budgets that were dropped down to zero through the
budget amendments. Because of those line items being zeroed out, there is no money for training
for the City Manager's Office, there's very little money for training in the Police Department or
Parks and Recreation. Part of the reason for this is because of a breakdown in communications,
which the City Manager takes full responsibility for, stating that his staff needs to run like a finely
tuned machine. As asserted by Mr. Pate, when these amendments are done, finance, budget, and
department heads are involved in the decision making. He stated it is important to him that these
changes are not seen in second reading. He recalled that during the last Commission meeting,
there were proposals to make changes during second reading in regards to a lobbyist and various
other expenses. City Manager Pate asserted that such amendments are made on an everyday basis
in every municipality in the United States of America, but the City needs to make sure they are
reduced and make sure there are proper procedures in place to make sure there is full transparency
and communication across departments with respect to finance and budget.
Mayor Pigatt pointed out that he specifically asked about what type of police training was being
paid for with the S8,000 budget amendment, because over the past year a huge movement called
for more training of police for de-escalation, less lethal weapons, mental health and things of that
nature. Because the budget is how the Commission says what they want the officers and staff to
be trained on, he would like clarity on exactly the trainings that are being paid for.
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
City Manager Pate re -stated that they include various leadership and de-escalation training courses.
The issue that has been identified that the City runs into, is that when the trainings the Mayor is
speaking about come up, there are no budget dollars. These are projections, and there is no exact
training schedule at this time other than leadership training. The City Manager wants to make sure
that the training budget was robust enough, to prevent a need to make a request in a third budget
amendment. The goal is to make one training budget for the year, and not have to come back to
the Commission on multiple occasions, so that the trainings the Mayor is suggesting can be
prioritized. He recognized that the Police Department was connected to the Commission meeting
via Zoom, and he welcomed further conversation about the types of training that are done. As for
Parks and Recreation, the City Manager said he wants to ensure their staff has appropriate
certifications, after the department has been under invested for years. With a certified director and
assistant director, along with a staff member that just became certified, the goal is to move the
Parks Department up. The City Manager's budget deals with leadership and other trainings that
the City Manager goes to, including conferences that come up. City Manager Pate reminded the
Commission that he has not attended any conferences in the past year, because he wanted to focus
on being fiscally responsible, but with all of the changes pertaining to the role of a City manager
especially post COVID-19, he wanted to make sure those training dollars are built in. Recruitment
dollars are also projected in the budget, which will be used to pay for things like the hotel expenses
for the applicants in the Chief of Police search. Travel dollars will also be needed because it is the
City Manager's intention to go to Tallahassee on multiple occasions this year to lobby on behalf
of the City and meet with other departments within the state government to assist the City in
moving forward. In a future budget amendment, there will be travel dollars for the City
Commission. Most likely the City Manager will ask Mr. Anathan to pull the funds out of the City
Manager's budget until a funds transfer can be completed to add additional funds for the City
Commission. City Manager Pate reminded the Commission that it is important to understand that
these budget amendments are approved by the state of Florida as they're passed as the City is still
in a financial emergency, the Mr. Pate offered assurances that there are a second set of eyes from
the state on what is being done in the City on a daily basis. The City Manager expressed
appreciation for the questions from the Mayor and offered to make himself available to provide
additional clarification.
Mayor Pigatt asked if the budget includes firearm training.
City Manager Pate replied, yes, it does.
Mayor Pigatt said that was what he was getting at because in a previous budget, he did not realize
that the City was paying for assault rifles. He wants to make sure that the City is training the police
on mental health, de-escalation, using less lethal weapons and those types of things because police
officers do what they are trained to do as has been seen with police brutality, when they are not
trained to de-escalate, but are trained to use firearms. He said that the City needs a police force
that is responsive with implicit bias training and things of that nature, and he'd like to know
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
whether or not dollars are being allocated for things like the 21' century police force training, less
lethal weapons training and even putting up funds for social services for those who are engaged.
He further said that he would like to have an understanding as to how much of the $28,000 training
budget is going to mental health, de-escalation and less lethal weapons as opposed to high powered
firearms training and things of that nature.
City Manager Pate assured the Commission that the City does not invest a lot of money in lethal
force training, and that it is far less than $2 or $3 thousand dollars. The majority of the $28,000 is
not going towards firearm training. Range fees are paid for, in order for police officers to qualify.
The nature of the beast must be understood, as stated by Mr. Pate, who acknowledged that all the
trainings the Mayor mentioned are very important and need to be programmed within the City's
law enforcement agency. He assured the Mayor that he, law enforcement leadership and whoever
the new police chief will be, hear the Mayor loud and clear. Mr. Pate also offered clarification
that the City's police officers just started carrying rifles in their vehicles and all of them have not
been rifle qualified, even though at times when they respond to calls, high powered rifles are
involved including the homicide that just occurred recently where high powered rifles were used.
He said if criminals on the street have high powered rifles then officers need high powered rifles.
While the City is partnering with the NAACP and various other organizations to try and reduce
violent crime, the City does have a violent crime issue. The Mayor was assured by City Manager
Pate that a large portion of the $28,000 will go towards the trainings the Mayor has recommended
as well as ones that various Commissioners and the Vice Mayor will recommend, and it will be
taken into consideration when programming the appropriate training.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
17. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
City Manager Pate began his report to the Commission by announcing that since the beginning of
the year, the City is making great strides in achieving its goals on a very productive and transparent
basis. The additional expenditures in the budget are needed to move the City forward. Some of
the expenditures are at the recommendation of the State of Florida and the Governor's designee,
to ensure that our police, human resources and various other departments are invested in, because
they need appropriate training, staffing and personnel. While the City is in a financial emergency
and the Governor's designee looks at the City's fmancial status, they look at the status of the City's
departments and what they are doing, including Human Resources, Building, Code Enforcement.
Anything that is related to a future expenditure or a future liability to the City, the State of Florida
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
provides guidance to the City Manager's Officer in regards to that. Manager Pate stressed to the
Commission and the residents of the City of Opa-locka that their funds are being used responsibly
and they are being transparent as a government. It is the responsibility of the City Manager, City
Attorney and City Clerk to mentor and train new elected officials, to ensure they are
knowledgeable in their job. He said his goal is to be transparent with all elected officials. He
recalled having difficult conversations with everyone on the dais, including the Vice Mayor and
Commissioner Taylor. There have been controversial conversations that are productive and
rewarding to the City Manager because he understands what motivates them and upsets them,
including the initiatives that they desire to get done such as the passion that Commissioner Taylor
and Vice Mayor Williams have for Parks and Recreation, the passion that the Mayor has for police
training and productivity, as well as Commissioner Burke's investment and guidance of the Police
Department, and Conunissioner Davis' commitment to social services for the residents of the City
of Opa-locka. The thing most moving to him was seeing Commissioner Davis' relationship with
the County Commission which made it possible to deliver the $2.1 million budgetary request from
the County, even having other City's requests reduced to accommodate the City of Opa-locka.
This demonstrated the commitment that the County has for this City. He said the City
Commission, prior to the new elected officials being swom in, had a 6 -month head start in moving
the City forward and just needed a City Manager to take it to the finish line. City Manager Pate
reflected upon his feelings that he will have to make the hardest decision he has ever made as City
Manager over the next 2 days to select a new chief of police. He expressed his appreciation to
Lieutenants Perez and Jenkins for manning the police department over the past 6 months, and
helping make strides within the department, including 24 new police vehicles, training officers,
and providing commitment and motivation for the officers to do good work. It must be understood
that the role of a law enforcement officer is very difficult. Over the next 2 days, the City Manager
explained he has to deal with a public assessment of the police department, review a survey that
will be put out tomorrow for the public to review the interviews, observe both candidates during a
tour along with a personal interview and lunch while the two candidates are allowed to interact
with one another. The best interview process is when you bring candidates together and have them
compete head -to -head at the same time, and you see their interaction and their understanding. The
charter requires the Commission to provide advising only to the City Manager's office, to protect
the Commission from being involved with the daily activities of the selection or termination of
personnel. He stated the importance of getting the Commission and public's input and explained
that if the two candidates being considered are not it, then the City will go back to the search
process. The City Manager acknowledged that it is his decision to determine if one of the two
candidates is the selected person, but he can make the decision that they are not as well, and asked
the public to tune in tomorrow on YouTube to watch the interview process live from 5:30 — 7:00
PM. It will be recorded and a permanent archive will allow the public to view those interviews
over the weekend until the date comments are cut off, and then the City Manager will go into
deliberation. As part of his deliberation process, Manager Pate committed to have a conversation
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
with each Commissioner, he will get feedback, look at both candidates, and then he will have to
get on his knees and pray because it is an important decision.
Mayor Pigatt, recalling having seen multiple candidates make it to the final round in the searches
all across the nation, asked why there are only two candidates.
City Manager Pate explained that there were five candidates. The search panel and the search
consultant did not feel confident in selecting 3 people if they felt they were not Opa-locka material
or were not the right candidate for the job. It was acknowledged by Manager Pate that typically
you do have 3 candidates, some cities have 6 finalists. The City Manager reminded the
commission that he has been involved in many national searches. It is up to the search panel to
move candidates forward to the level of the City Manager.
Mayor Pigatt asked if only 5 people had applied?
City Manager Pate explained that there were over 27 applications received, 5 individuals were
selected as semi-finalists, 1 withdrew because they did not meet the qualifications, 4 were
interviewed which were narrowed down to 2. Despite the City Manager asking for 3 finalists, the
search panel felt only 2 were qualified based on the experience that is needed for the City. There
are 2 strong candidates, both with sheriff office experience, both were chiefs within Jacksonville
and Clay County Sheriff's Office, and both with Florida experience. The City Manager recalled
that Commissioner Burke had asked why the City doesn't get a Florida candidate, and the manager
noted that the way the search process worked, the City ended up with 2 Florida candidates.
Because the City is in a financial emergency and has a high violent crime rate, it takes people that
are very courageous to apply and come to work for the City.
Mayor Pigatt recalled that the original proposal from the consultant that was chosen, said multiple
panels would be chosen which would include law enforcement partners, department heads,
community partners, advocacy groups, and labor groups. Since only one panel was mentioned, he
asked if there was only one, and whether or not there was engagement of the NAACP that has been
very involved with police violence, the Circle of Brotherhood that has been close to Opa-locka or
the Progressive Officers with its headquarters right here in Opa-locka, or other local community
partners, and if not, who was a part of the panel.
City Manager Pate explained that as far as community engagement was concerned, at the
beginning of the search, a survey was put out in regards to what the community wanted to see in
the next chief of police. Community members were also able to submit questions for the
candidates, even though not all questions were able to be considered. At the end of the process,
the public will be able to watch the interviews and provide input. Jessica Modkins, Public Relations
Consultant will engage in outreach to local partners so that they can watch the interviews and
provide their input. The panel consisted of City staff which in his opinion is very important and
essential to the process because whoever comes in as the chief of police has to assimilate to the
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
environment of the City of Opa-locka including its goals and objectives. City Manager Pate
assured the Mayor that he is an experienced law enforcement officer who will make the proper
decision.
Mayor Pigatt asserted that he was very excited about the police chief search when the manager
came to the commission during the budget amendment process. He recalled a contentious debate
when the commission voted to approve the consultant due to the level of community engagement
that the consultant would be able to provide with the panels and engagement of the commission
and others, so that the most important person that is going to direct the public safety of our
community, is someone that is selected by the community and is for the community. The process
was described as having been in the dark by the Mayor, with the Commission having just received
the resumes for the 2 candidates today, and not having seen the engagement that he was hoping
for when the commission spent $25,000 for the consultant. The Mayor mentioned the meet and
greet with department directors and elected officials that he had not even heard of being planned.
He went on to say that when the Commission recruited the City Manager, it was one of the Mayor's
considerations that Mr. Pate was a former chief of police, and as such the Commission understands
his assessment. Mayor Pigatt asserted that the police chief is critical to this community. The
Mayor then asked if anyone on the Commission or any of the citizens will be a part of the interview.
City Manager Pate clarified that it will be himself, the consultant and the 2 candidates answering
a list of questions that were selected by the consultant or through community engagement. The
reason Manager Pate explained that the Commission is not asking direct questions of the
candidates is because of the protection of the commission and previous allegations in regards to
the City Commission involving themselves in day to day operations of City government and
micromanagement of the police department. Mr. Pate stated that Opa-locka is a very controversial
City, and he further explained that he is very hesitant about candidates interacting with elected
officials prior to the search, which potentially could have happened on at least 2 occasions during
the search which the manager won't disclose on the dais. Based on that, the manager thought it
was important to make sure that our elected officials are shielded from the political pressure in
regards to the selection of a specific candidate. He reminded the Commission that they hired him
for the independence of the City Manager's office. He went on to state that he has received some
feedback from various members of the dais in regards to the search process, and those
considerations were taken into account and he hopes that his explanation that was provided was
satisfactory, and if not, he commits to doing better now that he understands the expectations
moving forward. He further apologized for protecting the dais. He explained that it was not his
intent to be offensive, and that he thought he was making the best decision possible on behalf of
the City and those sitting on the dais. Mr. Pate clarified that the vice mayor and our new
commissioner was not involved in the process initially, but feedback from the vice mayor has been
received and those assessments will be done moving forward should there be any other national
search.
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
Vice Mayor Williams acknowledged that this decision will be one the hardest decisions that the
City Manager is going to make, and thanked him for thinking of protecting the Commission. She
stated that there are 2 things she needs: communication and organization. The Vice Mayor
suggested that if they had known before that the City Manager was going to be very limited in
communication and how information was going to be presented to the commission, there would
not have been any push or pull from the Commission. Because it left much up to interpretation,
she was perceiving that she was being left out, and did not know that it was a protection until it
was explained to her. She said she would have appreciated knowing that the City Manager was
making that serious decision without any bias, and vetting the candidates without any politics
involved. While she acknowledged that she does not have a dog in the fight, she also stated that
everyone on the board has to balance being elected officials and residents of Opa-locka. Vice
Mayor Williams said she hopes and prays as a God-fearing woman that the City Manager makes
the best decision for Opa-locka, and she is confident he will. If God forbid it doesn't work out,
Vice Mayor Williams pointed out that the Commission will get blamed, and that's why she wants
to make sure that the City Manager gets it right.
Commissioner Davis stated that he received a resume from a 3rd candidate and wanted to ask if
that person is also being considered, or why they received that information.
City Manager Pate responded that he and the Clerk only provided the resumes for the 2 candidates
being considered for Police Chief.
Mayor Pigatt added that plenty of people sent their resumes to him, however, a search firm was
selected for all those to go through, and that was the level of protection because it is the City
Manager's decision.
Commissioner Burke added that he has also received some of those resumes, but he graciously
said that the City Commission no longer hires Police Chiefs in the City of Opa-locka. That's the
City Manager's job now.
Commissioner Taylor asked City Manager Pate when he thinks he will have his final decision.
City Manager Pate responded that he believed it would be approximately a week after tomorrow's
interview and the on -site visit on Friday. He said he will probably make a decision the next Friday
or that Monday, and it will not be a decision that he will make quickly in part because he would
like to give time for public input. He added that one thing he leamed from the search process is
that we need to work on pushing our residents to be engaged in these processes. As an example,
in almost a year and a half since he's been here, the many attempts to engage the residents have
not been effective, including for public hearings on budget amendments where nobody comes up
to speak about the budget and there is very little deliberation other than the 3 or 4 people who
come up to the dais. This was the experience during the search, with attempts to engage residents,
putting out press releases, and it moved at a snail's pace. That's why the City Manager is proud
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
that the Vice Mayor has brought up an excellent plan to engage residents and would like her to
speak on her initiative.
18. OFFICIAL BOARD REPORTS:
There were none.
19. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
City Manager Pate proposed calling a special meeting on Monday to go over legislative priorities.
Mayor Pigatt stressed how extremely important that is because the City has people up in
Tallahassee that are in meetings and do not have the City's priorities. He further expressed his
hope that the south bus route will be included as a legislative priority.
20. MAYOR/COMMISSION REPORTS:
Vice Mayor Williams personally thanked Parks & Recreation Department Director Delven
Patterson for everything he did at Saturday's COVID-19 vaccine distribution at Segal Park. Seeing
the seniors getting the vaccines, including a 100 -year -old resident, brought her to tears. Vice
Mayor Williams also spoke of an initiative that she would like to start called I Am Opa-locka
because in order to engage citizens, we must know who we are. The Vice Mayor would like to
showcase residents who are doing good things in the community, on social media and at
Commission meetings, to let them know we care and are thinking about them. That's how she
believes the City is going to re-engage the citizens, so that when COVID is over we can fill up the
auditorium. Vice Mayor Williams also stated that seniors are not going to go to social media, and
they have to figure out how to get information to those specifically 65 and up. The initiative the
Vice Mayor is proposing to work with the Parks & Recreation Department on, would have the
Commission together with Parks & Recreation staff and residents walking the neighborhood once
a month to place door hangers of all the events happening in Opa-locka to specific residents so
they know what is being done for them. The need to build the City's listsery is another initiative
of the Vice Mayor, which she proposes be done by getting residents to like the City's social media
pages, visiting the website, and collecting emails and phone numbers every time there is an event
in Opa-locka. She committed to working with Jessica Modkins, Public Relations Consultant on all
of these initiatives.
Mayor Pigatt thanked Vice Mayor Williams and said that we secured a Public Relations (PR)
person for the first time, despite the selection being contentious. He said that residents need to be
highlighted and he is happy that the Vice Mayor is taking the lead.
Commissioner Burke apologized to the dais and his colleagues for his interruption and outburst at
the last commission meeting. He suggested should there be any criticisms of employees, that an
appointment be made to meet with the City Manager.
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
Commissioner Davis followed his colleague in apologizing for his comments at the last
Commission meeting. He went on to state that they are all passionate about the police in our
community, and oftentimes when residents are experiencing violence in stressful situations, the
leaders get passionate and sometimes don't necessarily approach things in the best manner. He
shared his appreciation for Commissioner Burke's comments, and that he agreed to meet with the
City Manager under those situations, isolated from the dais
Mayor Pigatt expressed much respect for both Commissioner Burke and Commissioner Davis'
comments.
Commissioner Taylor thanked everyone that supported the MLK conversation that happened on
Martin Luther King Day. He said he loves Vice Mayor Williams idea of canvassing the
neighborhood and talking to seniors, because when he was campaigning, everyone was saying the
same thing that they don't see Commissioners until it's time to beg for a vote. He thinks this is a
good way to engage the community and let them know that they care about them and don't want
to just see them every 2 years when knocking doors and making promises during election time.
Additionally, he reminded everyone about the clean-up taking place Saturday with the Vice Mayor
and Miami -Dade County Commissioner Gilbert. He encouraged everyone from the community to
come out to help clean the City up.
Mayor Pigatt recalled that this day and meeting is always very special to him because 6 years ago
he was at the podium and while it was not a pretty situation, it sparked his will to be on the
Commission and get a new generation of leadership. The Mayor proclaimed that there is a new
day in Opa-locka. He went on to address the article that came out about the distribution of COVID-
19 vaccines, which compared the vaccination rates in Fisher Island as one of the wealthiest
communities in Miami -Dade County to the rates in Opa-locka. After the outcry there was about
that, he wanted to assure his colleagues that he had personally been in communication with the
Governor's office, key individuals on the emergency management team, Miami -Dade County's
Mayor and our County Commissioner. Just as they made sure the City had a walk-up rapid testing
site for toddlers on up, we will be getting a vaccination site in the City of Opa-locka that reflects
our residents. Right now due to the large rollout of the vaccines, they have been focusing on getting
as many people vaccinated as possible using drive-thrus, but we know for it to work in our
community, drive-thru isn't the best situation for us. He said the City needs a mobile site, a walk-
up site, just like the pop-up one we had this past weekend, which was a direct call from the state
to partner with religious organizations to make sure the vaccination gets out. Potential sites in
Opa-locka have been identified, so those things are moving forward.
He continued by addressing the event policy, and said he believes it is important that everyone is
on the same page when it comes to organising events. He looks forward to seeing the legislation
and for the Commission to discuss so that everyone knows when they need to show up, what
they're doing, who is coordinating, who is the host, and the whole process. Lastly, the Mayor
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021
spoke of his conversation with the President of St. Thomas University, which was initially sparked
by conversations about a potential charter review coming up next year and getting as much support.
When St. Thomas University was started in 1961, they were founded in Opa-locka and are
celebrating their 60th anniversary this year. He said he wants to make sure that relationships are
created with local universities and partners because it offers opportunities for Parks & Recreation
and Optimist Clubs to have competition and tournaments. He said he is looking forward to the
legislative conversation and beginning to talk about Commission priorities as a unit so that all of
the ideas and initiatives are properly budgeted, so that they come to fruition.
City Manager Pate thanked Representative James Bush and former Mayor Joseph L. Kelley for
making the COVID-19 vaccine event possible. The event was coordinated through Representative
Bush's office and the location was former Mayor Kelley's Church. The Manager also reminded
the Mayor that he had not announced the State of the City.
Mayor Pigatt pointed out that he had thanked Representative Bush and Mayor Kelley at the very
beginning of the meeting. He went on to announce that the State of the City will be this Friday at
6:30 PM online on Facebook, and will include a compilation of the City's accomplishments.
21. OFFICIAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
There were none.
22. ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business to come before the City Commission, it was moved by
Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to adjourn the meeting at 8:29 p.m.
Matthew A. Pigatt
Mayor
Attest:
J i" na Flores, CMC
City Clerk
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Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 27, 2021